Sunday, December 12, 2010

Toy Story

After yesterday's post, I told mom that it's only fair that you know The Story of the Toys and How The Little Stinky Bugger Monster Stole Them All.

I mean, stealing toys is one thing, but this animal, this thing has a real problem.

You see, he takes them and brings them outside. He never once brings them back in so we can play with them again. Oh, nooooooo. Once they go outside, they're lost for good. We never see them again! Nylabones, Kongs, rope toys, tennis balls by the dozens... Mom has to buy new ones because they disappear! Poof! They vanish. Into thin air. Or into the woods, I don't know. Maybe the sqwerrels get them! (Oh, horrors. If that's the case, this is worse than I thought!)

So here's the sad story. You be the judge!



It all started one day when I was all alone, just having fun with my favorite rope toy. (I LOOOOOVE rope toys. They're probably my favoritest in the universe.) I was so happy, chewing away, not a care in the world.




Then, something happened. The Little Stinky Bugger Monster thing snuck into the room. At first I didn't see the monster because my eyes were closed. (Hey, remember that I was in toy heaven chewing on my favorite rope toy, minding my own business! Some Stinky things might take a cue from the minding their own business part!)




I warned The Little Stinky Bugger Monster! I gave it my best growl and snap! Quick and mean... That's how I operate! Heh, heh. I thought everything was okay. I'm pretty mean and tough! But The Little Stinky Bugger Monster was fast. It grabbed the rope toy! Grabbed it! My FAVORITE rope toy!




I fought as hard as I could, but The Little Stinky Bugger Monster was strong for a little bugger! It wouldn't let go! I could feel the toy slipping from my grip. Slowly, inch by inch, I was losing my FAVORITE TOY! I knew that this poor, poor toy was soon to join all of the others...




Outside, in the grasp of The Little Stinky Bugger Monster! All of our toys, MY TOYS, lost to this usurper. This thing that came into our lives and stole our toys, one-by-one. And gave them to the sqwerrels!!!! 

It's not right I tell ya.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

A Reminder!

I just want to remind my mom that Christmas is coming. My stinky little brother keeps stealing my toys and hiding them outside. I try as hard as I can to hoard them, but Stinky keeps stealing them! MAAAAaaaaa!

What's a dog to do?!

Monday, November 15, 2010

DNA Mystery Continues

A few months back, I did a cheek swab DNA test on Oliver. The results were not what I had expected. At all.

I know I have a lovable mutt, but looking at him - and I know you can't just look at a dog and determine its breed(s), we know that a lot of problems have stemmed from that mistake! - I would bet the ranch on Rhodesian Ridgeback somewhere in his lineage.

Now, I know the cheek swab test isn't as accurate as the blood test. So when it came back with somewhat surprising results,  I thought of it as more of a funny conversation piece rather than Oliver's heritage written in stone.

And I set my sights on a MARS Wisdom Panel. Indeed, the Wisdom Panel would shed light on who Ollie really is; what makes his ears do weird, floppy things; why, when he barks, it's sort of a howl, sort of a - well - scream from the depths, like something out of a B horror flick. This is not a "Labrador/Rottweiler with a dash of Yorkie," and we were going to identify who Oliver really is!

Well, let me tell you. This "more accurate blood test" has got me wondering how many daddys little Ollie has. Seriously.

First, a little background to help you understand the results.

MARS breaks the breed make up into Significant, Intermediate, and Minor. If a Significant breed is detected, it means that at least 50% of the dog's DNA comes from that particular breed. If an Intermediate breed is detected, at least 25% of the dog's DNA is from that breed. If a Minor breed is detected, at least 12.5% of the dog's DNA is from that breed.

Ready?


Banish the idea of Labrador or Rottweiler or Yorkie from your mind. Just forget about those breeds altogether. Not a drop of those pooches in Ollie, according to MARS. Not one single drop.

My little Oliver, King of All Mutts, is:

  • No Significant breed detected
  • Intermediate breed (25%): Dachshund
  • Minor breeds: Japanese Chin, Boxer, and Toy Poodle

I can see Dachshund in him at times, but Japanese Chin? Toy Poodle??

So now, when I get upset with him, I threaten to curl his hair and dye it pink.

Do Not Adopt Warning PLEASE CROSSPOST: Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford

Do Not Adopt Warning - Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford
by StubbyDog Project on Monday, November 15, 2010 at 7:57am
For Rescues, Shelters, and Private Adopters:

DO NOT ADOPT:
An indivdual going by the names: Cathy Bradford aka Ruth Bradford aka Ruth Ann Bradford has been attempting to adopt dogs, specifically pit bulls. She is suspected of selling dogs to labratories or for using in dog fights. Her husband is convicted dogfighter.

This individual is attempting to adopt from local shelters and private rescues in Missouri and Illinois, as well as contacting Pit Bull Rescue Central and applying for dogs w/PBRC's online adoption application

Description: She is about 5’4” white, on the heavier side, brown, curly (loose curls), shoulder length hair.
Approximately – 45 to 50 years old.

Bradford uses multiple addresses:
3205 cotton dodd rd. Cuba, MO
1488 Becker Road Cuba Mo 65453

She is willing to drive up to 200 miles (per her application) to pick up a dog.
She consistently lists other pets on her application, but the pets vary. Often she mentions having a Min Pin.
She also lists her husband, the dog fighter, as a resident of her home.

Please do not adopt to this woman or anyone at her address. Do not allow her to transport dogs. Please Cross Post.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Separated at Birth?

Separated at birth: Oliver and a red kangaroo joey, born at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. I see it in the eyes and cheeks, don't you? And, he jumps. A lot.

Lucy votes pleads for bringing Oliver to the zoo. And leaving him there.

Picture by Darlene Stack/Assiniboine Zoo

This picture is from a gallery of absolutely adorable baby animals featured in the Wired Science blog recently. They're promoting two new books of photos taken from the ZooBorns internet site, which, if you love animals, is as addictive as can be.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Rufus Needs Transport - NC to FLA!

If you can help or know someone who can...

Rufus has lived his life chained to a tree. He's a gorgeous, three year old Rottweiler who is heartworm positive and emaciated... His owner has agreed to release him to a wonderful foster home who will give him the help he needs and rehabilitate him, but she needs help transporting him from Statesville, North Carolina to Brandon, FL.

If you have any ideas or can help with transport - click here!

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop


  • Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
  • Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
  • Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
  • Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
  • Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
  • Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop
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Wednesday, September 29, 2010

HELP! Last Day to Vote for PAWS!

It's the last day to vote for Paws so we can win a new website! We're desperate for one (click here if you don't believe me), and all you have to do is go to this Facebook poll, scroll down to Pet Animal Welfare Society of CT and click on the button provided. (You might have to click on "Polls" at the top to see the survey itself in order to vote.)

Right now, we have only 75 votes and we're in second place. The leader has 113! We're not that far behind... With your help, we can win! Help, please!

Tell your friends... We'd appreciate it sooooo much! THANK YOU!

I'd sleep a whole lot better knowing Paws had a new website!

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop - And an Apology!

Phew! Glad this week is over! We've been so busy with our 3rd Annual Paws Bark in the Park fundraiser, I haven't had time to visit everyone and say hi! I promise I'll catch up, but I think the maniacal expression on my face in this picture sums it up. I'd reached a breaking point by Sunday, but it was all well worth it!


So it's time for another blog hop - let's get out there and meet some great new friends, and reconnect with our old buddies!

  • Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
  • Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
  • Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
  • Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
  • Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
  • Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop

Friday, September 17, 2010

How to Beg for a Cookie. Success Not Guaranteed.

Okay. Pay attention. This is how it's done.
"I'm cute... See how cute I am? You know you want to share that with me.
Hey! Look at me when I'm talking to you."

OMG! Was that the last bite? I can't believe it - that was the last bite!
He ate the last bite! How rude!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop - With A Twist

This week, you can help lots of animals all over the country.

First, you can help Paws of Norwalk, CT by clicking on this link and voting for us. If we win, we'll get a free website from Elevation who specializes in web solutions for non-profits! We're in desperate need of a new site, and here's proof... Please pass this link on to as many friends and family as you can! Thank you very, very much for your support!


Second, if you visit Two Little Cavaliers, you'll get details on how you can help donate food to shelters nationwide. It's almost as simple as clicking the link to vote for Paws. Write a post and Pedigree will donate a 20 lb. bag of food to a shelter!


Now on the fun and the task of meeting new friends!!









  • Link up your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. You only need to add you link once to be seen on all the Pet Blogger Blog Hop Linky Tools for that week.
  • Grab the Pet Bloggers Blog Hop button that our friends over on Life with Dogs made for us and include it in your Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop post so that your readers will know what is going on.
  • Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool and comment on their blogs to say hello!
  • Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like
  • Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from the Saturday Pet Bloggers Hop
  • Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop

Friday, September 10, 2010

Help Paws Win A New, Free Website!

You all know I volunteer at a no-kill animal shelter in Norwalk, CT called Paws. It's where two of my five dogs are from, Charlie and Oliver.

If you can, I'd appreciate it if you would vote for us in this poll on Facebook. I'd also be very grateful if you would share the link with your friends and family!

If Paws wins, we'd get a free website. And boy, do we need it. Just take a look at this page, and tell me if you don't agree!

Elevation, the sponsor of the poll, specializes in web solutions for non-profits. If we were to win, it would be a dream come true!

Thank you so much for your support!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Two Pitties Sitting Pretty


Meet Vendi (left) and Bandit, two Pit Bulls who have been at the shelter far too long. They're both about 1 1/2 years old and they love to play together. 

Vendi (left) and Bandit (right). 
Vendi loves everyone she meets, and Bandit prefers adults to children. They have the best personalities anyone could ever want in a companion. Cuddly, sweet, playful, friendly... Did I mention playful? And they'll cover you in kisses if given the opportunity.

So why have they been waiting so long for homes? 

Vendi has been at the shelter for over a year. Fifteen months to be exact. Lots of people show interest, but no one ever follows through. She's a stunning lady, red with white, not too large (about 50 lbs.), and so willing to please. She would make a family with kids so happy - and so tired, playing all day long!

Bandit joined us two days before Christmas last year. He's so sweet and handsome with his eye patches. He's not a big dog either (about 45 lbs.), he's good on leash, knows basic obedience and he's so lovable! So why has he been waiting for nine months for a home?

I can't accept that it's because they're Pit Bulls. But I'm sure that's what it is. And it's so unfair to these two wonderful dogs.

Monday, September 6, 2010

Three's a Charm!

One more award, from my pal Roo! Look closely - see anyone familiar?

Yes, that's Roo! He IS the King of Hearts!
And Roo's gift comes with a message, too:

Because you do so many heart warming things for others...

I made this award to give to you.
Just for being you :)
XOX
Roo

Isn't that the sweetest? Roo, you're a fella after my own heart!  XOX right back to you!

And Another Award!

As if I weren't honored enough receiving an award from Miley, my friends Haylie and Fred at Hound Girl re-awarded me the Strange Men in Pinstripes Award! This was a "re-award" (if that's even a word!) because I had received it from my friend Tilly a few weeks back. 

But in my world Strange is a Wonderful Thing, so I'm eager to share it with even more of my strange blogging friends!


Some background regarding this award:
"The 'Strange Men in Pinstripe Suits' award is given to only the strangest of folk, and as the recipient of such you are deemed very strange indeed. Congratulations.
Now you must go forth and celebrate the strangeness of friends (and strangers - strangers are always allowed) by nominating blogs run by strange folk. *Beware, some people don't like you to refer to them as strange…Try to avoid them if possible."

Of course, as with any award, there are some rules:

1. Add the logo of the award to your blog post.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded it to you (don't mess with strange people).
3. Nominate seven other blogs telling us why you think the recipient is strange enough to deserve the award.
4. Leave a message for those nominated on their blogs. 
5. And, if you email catephoenix(at)gmail(dot)com and tell her you've received the award for your strangeness, she'll enter you in the biggest kick-ass Strange Men competition ever. Details over at strangemeninpinstripesuits.com (click on the award link on the home page).

Pretty cool, don't you think? You win an award AND get to enter a contest to win other stuff!

So, here are ANOTHER seven blogs that I think are strange and wonderful!








Now, the true rule to remember is the Strange is a GREAT thing!

I'm off to tell these folks about their awards - have a great day!


The Doggie Bloggie Award!

So I mentioned on Saturyday that my friend Miley at Curious Cavorting Cavoodle awarded me the Doggie Bloggie Award.




Is this not the cutest little doggie you've ever seen?! Thank you, Miley - I'm honored!

This award has some rules:

  1. Please thank the dog who gave this to you, and link to them.
  2. Name 10 (yes 10) things about yourself. Try to be as creative as possible.
  3. Then, award 15 doggie bloggers. It doesn't matter whether they are old or new.
  4. Comment on the new receivers of this award's blog to let them know of the love.
  5. And the most important: HAVE FUN!

Okay - first,10 things about us (YIKES! 10??)

1 - Charlie likes to watch dogs on TV. She doesn't watch TV in general, but whenever a dog appears, she'll stop whatever she's doing and run up to the screen. She'll often play bow to get it to play with her. If the dog runs off, she looks behind the set to see where it went!
Charlie watches Westminster
2 - Oliver has learned things from the other dogs. Weird things. For example, he's learned how to herd from Lucy, my Aussie, so he nips the heels of the other dogs as they run. And he's learned how to counter surf from Charlie. It's very funny to watch him watch the others and mimic their habits! Except the counter surfing. That's very annoying!

3 - I have a buckwheat neckroll that Charlie avoids at all costs. If I so much as adjust the pillow and Charlie hears the crunch of the buckwheat, she slinks out of the room. Go figure!

4 - When Charlie gets in trouble, and that's fairly often, she "smiles." It would be cute if she weren't IN TROUBLE!! :)

It's hard to stay mad at a dog who smiles at you!
5 - Oliver likes to go for walks, but when he gets tired, he plops down. And won't budge. This is very frustrating, because he weighs 30+ lbs. now and I'm not carrying him home!

Oliver refusing to go one more step

6 - Buster is a cancer survivor. In 2007, he had a tumor removed from his ribcage - osteosarcoma - a very rare place for it to occur, and he's back to being his grouchy old self!

Only Buster could look dashing in a cast!

7 - The tip of Oliver's tail is no longer with us. It's a mystery as to where it is, or when it left his body, but it doesn't seem to bother him one way or another. He just has a goofy, curly knob where it used to be. Which adds to his character!







8 - I love that I have a group of virtual friends to blog with about animals. Having people who understand that there's more to life than "me, me, me" is wonderful. Knowing that many of you have rescued your animals makes it even more fantastic, and knowing that each and every one of you love your animals to pieces is the icing on the cake!

9 - I love volunteering at our local no-kill shelter, and I'm looking forward to our annual walk coming up on 9/19! It's a lot of hard work for the handful of volunteers who organize it, but it feels so good when the event rolls around and everyone and their dogs are having so much fun! And the end result, helping all the great pets we have available for adoption (and these are just a few!), is what makes it all worthwhile!


10 - And, finally, I know we can't rescue and rehome every animal out there, but I do know we can try!

Phew!! That was tough! 

Now I have to pass this award on to 15 of my blogger friends:









Okay, done! 


Now I have to leave a comment for everyone so they know they've just gotten an award! Bye for now!

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Saturday Pet Blogger Hop!

It's been a very busy week for me, and I have a LOT of catching up to do. 
First, it seemed like an average Tuesday morning. Until I checked my blog...


That's when I learned that Miley at Curious Cavorting Cavoodle had awarded me the Doggie Bloggie Award, and Haylie and Fred at Hound Girl re-awarded me the Strange Men in Pinstripes Award! I say "re-awarded" because I received this award from my good friend Tilly a few weeks back, but since Strange is Good GREAT, I'll happily accept it once again and relish the opportunity to pass it along to more of my strange blogging friends! I will do my very best to get to these awards today...

We're also working hard at our shelter to prepare for our upcoming 3rd Annual Bark in the Park Dog Walk and Fundraiser. It's tons of work undertaken by a handful of volunteers, and each year the event grows and grows (A Good Thing!). We put in an amazing amount of work, and it feels great to think that 99% of what we produce for the event is through donations (read: BEGGING). It's true. We have no pride when it comes to the animals! :)  (In case you have some extra change burning a hole in your pocket, and you want it to go to a fantastic, grassroots cause, feel free to click here! Whisker kisses to you!)

We also managed to dodge Earl the Hurricane this week. Unfortunately, he wasn't so nice to a lot of the eastern seaboard. He was downgraded to a tropical storm and is currently slamming Nova Scotia. All the best to our friends up and down the eastern seaboard!

Now it's time to meet some new friends and reconnect with old! Have fun, everyone, and enjoy today's blog hop!





  • Add your blog name and URL using the Linky Tool below. Add your name once and be seen on ALL participating Blog Hops for this week!


  • Grab the “Saturday Pet Blogger Blog Hop” button at the upper left of Life with Dogs (a blog you'll definitely want to follow if you're not already!) and include it in your Saturday Blog hop post so that your readers will know what is going on. *Note – posting is optional. Feel free to just link and follow.


  • Follow your co-hosts listed in the first 3 slots of the Linky Tool.


  • Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you’d like.


  • Comment on the blogs listed telling them you’re from the blog hop.


  • Follow back when you get a new follower through the Saturday Pet Bloggers Blog Hop!


  • Have fun! (This is the important part!)






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